Never Too Far Novel

On a whim, Willow touched Jasper’s forehead, detecting a subtle warmth that piqued her concern. Leaning closer, she inquired with a hint of worry, “You’re so warm. Are you sick?”

Sick? It’s all because of you. “No, it’s just too stuffy here,” he murmured, trying not to blame anyone or anything.

Then, she extended her hand again to cautiously gauge his forehead’s temperature. Right. He’s not running a fever. He’s just sweating. “You should go outside for some fresh air,” she suggested, not wanting him to feel uncomfortable.

Willow’s words had an instant effect, propelling Jasper to his feet, and he walked out. With his departure came a gust of cold air, but undeterred, she swiftly claimed his vacated place, basking in the lingering warmth he had left behind.

When he stepped outside, a sudden gust of icy wind embraced him. Suddenly, his keen eyes caught sight of a boat emerging from the misty sea, steadily drawing closer to the island. In an instant, he darted back to the equipment storage, grabbed the binoculars, and eagerly trained them on the approaching vessel. Sure enough, it was heading straight for the same island he now stood upon.

His face creased with concern, and he hurriedly approached Winston’s tent, saying, “There’s a boat approaching. Wake everyone up.” There’s urgency in his voice.

sprang to his feet. As anticipated, he spotted the flickering of distant boat lights and wasted no time rousing his fellow team members. At the sound of the commotion, Willow emerged from her tent, too, curious to know what was going on. A female team

whirled in her mind. Why would

Is it a

safety,” Willow reassured with a gentle smile. After saying this, she

matter the circumstance, he vowed

she obediently stood behind him. Her eyes alighted upon the binoculars he held, and she couldn’t resist extending her hand to grab it. While peeking out from her shelter behind him, she brought the binoculars to her eyes to observe the approaching boat. As her gaze swept

her, his eyes searching for answers as he inquired,

lips as she responded, “He’s the persistent

the person on the boat? We